CALGARY - The comeback dream has died for Theo Fleury.
The comeback kid has been released by the Flames and will not be going to Abbottsford, said club management Friday morning.
“I believe Theoren did a great job and should be proud, especially considering all the factors including age, time away from the game and lifestyle change,” said Flames General Manager Darryl Sutter.
“This is not a hockey story; it’s a life story. Our agreement with Theoren was that he had to be one of our top six wingers and there were never any intentions of assigning him to the American Hockey League.”
The 41-year-old, who'd been attempting a comeback after six years out of the NHL and a much-publicized battle with alcoholism, was not on the ice when the Flames held practice Friday.
According to a source, Fleury came to the rink but departed a half hour before practice began.
Following his dismissal, Fleury thanked his former team.
“I am very thankful to Darryl and the Flames organization for following through on the commitment to provide me with this opportunity,” said Fleury.
“I said in the beginning that no matter what the outcome, this would be a success story. I intend to take the next few days to review this experience and make decisions with my family regarding next steps in my life.”
Fleury collected four points in four games, plus the shootout winner in his return. He was also plus-4.
